Sunshine Coast to Lake Eyre - August 2011

G'day all,
We are planning a trip across from the Queensland coast to Lake Eyre and having not done such remote travel in the past I'm looking for a heads up on some things to look out for, both mechanical, camping and scenic related.

We are heading via Cunnamulla, Thargominda, Eulo then on to Innamincka. next down the Strezlecky Track to Lyndhurst then up to Maree and the lake. Return via Birdsville track.

We are travelling in a 79Series Landcruiser 1HD-FTE with air-water intercooler and 3" exhaust and Steinbauer chip, new Fulcrum suspension with RAW4X4 shocks and steering damper. Service just prior to the trip and also new Mickey Thompson 4 rib ATZ tyres including the spare. I'm carrying the obvious spares, fuel and air filters, belts and hoses and a tyre repair kit. So I'm trusting that mechanically all will be well.

We have also a copy of the Hema maps and are GPS capable. (Thanks ExplorOz )

My problem lies with fuel, water and how much of each and route accessibility. I note that the longest part between fuel stops is about 500km. I carry 180litres in the 2 standard tanks which is good for about 1200km on the highway. Do I need more. Also a 125litre under tray water tank with another 2 x 25litre water containers inside the canopy.

Finally I know about calling the local police centres for track info (Hema have a handy list of all the relevant police stations on their maps. Nice ) But I'm wondering if anyone has been along those tracks in the last month and what are the conditions like. Particularly the route across the Cooper Creek which was flooded earlier this year.

Many thanks to all for the imminent explosion of information.

Regards,
Larry.